Fantasy Scouting Report: Aaron Rodgers

In terms of fantasy production, Rodgers' first year under center was a successful one. The fourth-year vet out of California finished his 2008 campaign ranked fourth in the league in yards (4,038), fourth in touchdowns (28), and tied for first in completions of 40-plus yards (16).

Rodgers has the luxury of playing in a pass-happy Green Bay offense that features some of the best YAC (yards after catch) receivers in the league in Greg Jennings and Donald Driver. He can make plays with his feet, and the big game potential is there, as evidenced by Rodgers' 10 games with two or more TD passes and eight contests with 275-plus yards passing.

Why We Don’t Like Him

He struggles on the road. Nine of Rodgers' 13 interceptions occurred away from Lambeau Field last season, as the Packers posted a miserable 2-6 road record. Chalk it up to growing pains.

Fantasy Outlook

As Michael Lombardi likes to say, the second year is always a big improvement for talented young quarterbacks in this business. We expect Rodgers to take the next step as an NFL signal caller in 2009, which is a scary proposition, considering the statistics he put up in his first season as a starter.

The pressure of replacing legendary quarterback Brett Favre is off his shoulders this season, and a healthy Ryan Grant should help to lighten the load offensively. If you notice Rodgers' stock falling on draft day, pull the trigger.